Djoser Step Pyramid
Djoser’s Step Pyramid at Saqqara is one of the most important archeological
sites in all of Egypt. While it may not be as impressive or as famous as the Giza Pyramids,
this structure predates them and it is vital to archeologists’ understanding
of the development of pyramid construction. The Step Pyramid was built in
the 27th century BC during the 3rd dynasty rule of Djoser.
It is the first pyramid built in Egypt and while it is not a ‘true pyramid’ with smooth sides,
Djoser Step Pyramid
like those at Giza and Dahshur remains an important stepping stone in
their development. It is also the first large-scale cut-stone structure in the
world. The structure consists of six distinct layers, or steps, of diminishing size built
on top of one another. Archeologists understand this to be an embellishment
of earlier and earlier practice where pharaohs were buried under a mastaba,
a flat rectangular structure somewhat like a large grave covering.
Djoser’s builders decided to stack several of these structures to create a more
Djoser Step Pyramid
imposing monument to the pharaoh, creating the structure we see today that stands
203 feet tall. In doing so, they took the first step toward the creation of the
pyramids that have made Ancient Egypt famous throughout the ages.
of earlier an earlier practice where pharaohs were buried under a mastaba,
a flat rectangular structure somewhat like a large grave covering.
Djoser Step Pyramid
Djoser’s builders decided to stack several of these structures to create a more
imposing monument to the pharaoh, creating the structure we see today that stands
203 feet tall. In doing so, they took the first step toward the creation of the
pyramids that have made Ancient Egypt famous throughout the ages.
pyramids that have made Ancient Egypt famous throughout the ages.
